The Nigerian government, through the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), is planning a substantial 800percent increase in aircraft navigation fees and charges, slated to take effect from early September.
Mr. Umar Farouk, Managing Director of NAMA, revealed this development during the 28th League of Aviation and Airport Correspondents (LAAC) Conference held on Friday in Lagos.
Farouk explained that the fees were last revised in 2008 and that the proposed hike, pending stakeholder consultations, could be implemented by September 1st.
The proposed changes would see en-route navigation fees rise from N2,000 to N18,000 per flight, while terminal navigation charges would increase from N6,000 to N104,000 per flight.
He added, “We are also considering an increase in the extension of service hours from N50,000 to N450,000 per extension to cover the costs of diesel and other logistics.”
In addition, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), assured that the federal government is committed to creating policies that will strengthen the capabilities of local airlines.
Keyamo highlighted the government’s focus on developing Maintenance Repair Organization (MRO) facilities across Nigeria. He mentioned ongoing discussions with investors from Europe, Asia, America, and the Middle East regarding investments in these facilities, which are expected to greatly benefit the aviation sector.
Keyamo also criticized some bilateral air services agreements, noting that they have been unfavorable to Nigeria. He pointed out that foreign carriers often prefer prime Nigerian routes while relegating Nigerian airlines to less favorable routes in their countries.
“Lufthansa comes here, but we don’t fly to Frankfurt. Delta and United come from America, but we don’t go there. South Africa comes here without reciprocity,” he remarked.
Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe, Chairman of the conference and CEO of CITA Aviation Fueling Ltd., addressed the numerous challenges facing the Nigerian aviation industry, which has been significantly affected by the broader economic environment.
Ogungbangbe outlined several key issues, including the high cost of fuel, limited access to foreign exchange, a depreciating currency, and the continuous need for maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.
Despite these challenges, he noted that they also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and progress within the industry.
He emphasized that while investing in new airport projects is essential, neglecting critical infrastructure like roads is counterproductive. Improved road networks are vital for enhancing airport accessibility and making air travel more appealing.
Ogungbangbe concluded by stressing the importance of stimulating economic growth, efficiently allocating resources, encouraging public-private partnerships, developing integrated transport plans, and promoting Nigeria as a premier travel destination.
(NAIRAMETRIC)
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